A NEW supporters group for Malton-based York City fans will be launched on Monday night.

The Malton Minstermen will meet for the first time at 7.30pm in the Norton's Ryedale Indoor Bowl and Leisure Centre.

Player manager Chris Brass, and Malton-based Clubman of the Year Darren Dunning will also be present for questions and admission is free.

Following the success of the Harrogate Minstermen and the recently-formed York Minstermen, the new group has been organised by Malton-based City communications director Sophie McGill.

McGill said: "The idea to launch the Malton Minstermen really came from the overwhelming success of the Harrogate Minstermen and a recent visit to Norton College. I visited the school with Darren Dunning and managing director Jason McGill and it was very evident there is a lot of interest in York City in the Malton area especially from younger football fans.

"This was supported by the club's database which showed there were around 70 supporters in the area. The aim of the Malton Minstermen is to get together York City fans in the Malton area to create an active supporter group who will meet once monthly.

"We are hoping to attract both adults and younger supporters who are City enthusiasts. We have seen from the Harrogate Minstermen how supporter groups can help to galvanise support and this is just what we will need next season in our fight to get back into the Football League."

Also in attendance will be representatives from the Harrogate Minstermen who will be there to talk about how to create a successful supporter group.

Should supporters need any additional information or require directions to the venue please call 01653 600016.

Updated: 10:57 Tuesday, May 18, 2004